Finding the source of a network connection problem often requires one of more of the following:

• Run ipconfig from the command line
• Run tracert from the command line
• Checking various properties in Control Panel
• Restarting the network card
• Rebooting the computer
• Contacting the ISP

Not only does a user need to know about how run several different tools, they also have to know how to interpret the results.  My goal is to write a single application that will be able to walk the user through (and perform when possible) all of the troubleshooting steps needed to diagnose a broken network connection.

The requirements for the application are as follows:

• Provide a streamlined interface and detailed information for advanced users
• Walk novice users through the troubleshooting steps – explain the results and suggest steps to take to resolve the problem
• Educate users that are interested in learning more by explaining various network terms and describing what test results mean and explain why resolutions are suggested

I would really like this application to be something that is useful for everyone.  Too many tools are targeted solely at users who already know what they’re doing.

The idea here is that advanced users (like me)  will be able to do network troubleshooting by running one tool instead of several.  Novice users will be able to do their own troubleshooting and not have to bother computer savvy friends or relatives every time their network connection goes south .

If you have any comments, questions, or would like to participate in beta testing when it’s ready then head over to the forums.